Mentally Strong People

September 27, 2024

“New ideas are always suspected, and usually opposed, without any other reason but because they are not already common.” John Locke, English Philosopher, 1632-1704.

I have had the privilege of working in 5 large and very sophisticated companies, mostly at the senior level. I watched many very competent and successful leaders, often as their peer. I also observed senior leaders that failed in their jobs, many miserably. After about 5-6 years, I could predict success and failure. I just watched their mental toughness. It was simple. Mentally tough leaders often have the following traits:

1. Mistakes are learning opportunities, and they avoid repeating. These leaders always check their motives to make sure their actions are not self-centered and have high integrity. The pursuit of a goal to make oneself look good is usually contrary to business success.

2. Mentally tough leaders are not complacent. When a problem develops, these leaders do not drag their feet to address. They know that the problem will only get worse. Of course, dealing with a problem is often “hard work.” but mentally strong leaders don’t wilt or avoid taking action. And-mentally strong leaders are excellent problem solvers.

3. Mentally strong leaders remain calm during upheavals or in a crisis. They are not impulsive, nor do they let their emotions dictate their actions. Letting emotions take over, causes missteps, misdeeds, and miswords.

4. Leaders have limits to their skills and abilities, and most importantly, know when to ask for help. Young leaders and/or rapidly promoted leaders hate to ask for input or guidance. They would rather drown. Mentally strong leaders are excellent at self-assessment regarding their skills. Strong leaders build strong teams. They want talented people around them. Building an effective team is an important leadership competency.

5. Mentally tough leaders take care of themselves and do not try to please everyone. By trying to please all, often a leader has to act inauthentically by holding back or presenting a false image. That effort is energy draining and sends a mixed message to the organization.

6. Strong leaders don’t blame others; they don’t gossip, nor grab the “glory.” They let the sun shine on others. When they commit, and give their word, and they keep it. Mentally strong leaders are transparent. “What you see is what you get.”

7. Mentally strong leaders are not physically lazy. They have the personal energy for the job. Their team can reach them if needed. If left a message, or email, they respond in a timely manner. These leaders are “engaged” in running the enterprise.

And one more related thought-highly successful business leaders have great external grasp of their industry. They know the competitors, growth prospects, economic factors, laws and regulations, and product growth cycles.